Idrus Marham calls for Nahdlatul Ulama leadership restructuring

Idrus Marham, Chairman of the Forum of Alumni of State Islamic Higher Education (IKA PTKIN) Indonesia, has called for a restructuring of leadership within Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) ahead of its 35th Muktamar. Speaking during the launch of his book, ‘Nahdlatul Ulama and the Challenges of Civilization’, Marham emphasized the need for ‘strong leadership’ that possesses both intellectual capability and the ability to navigate modern societal dynamics and innovation.

Marham also raised concerns regarding the behavior of certain PBNU elites leading up to the Muktamar, which is scheduled to take place from August 27 to 31, 2026, in Jombang, East Java. He criticized what he described as pragmatic attitudes among some officials, suggesting that the personal political behaviors of some NU members have become more pronounced than those of political party members. He noted that the future direction of the organization will depend heavily on regional and branch officials, who serve as the decisive voters in the leadership selection process.